December 2016 JBLM MWR e-Focus

FOCUS Joint Base Lewis-McChord Family and MWR fun, food, travel & well-being guide

December 2016 • JBLMmwr.com

f e s t i v e h o l i d a y e v e n t s & n e w y e a r p a r t i e s w i t h f a m i ly & m w r

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Joint Base Lewis-McChord Focus December 2016

WE’RE HERE FOR

food 6 Dining & good times combine

CONTENTS

Go out to eat and get a treat — Breakfast with Santa, ugly sweater contest prizes, holiday desserts, Football Frenzy & more.

fun

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8 Enjoy the holidays & more Have fun at tree lighting trip & New Year’s Eve parties, with a new photo booth, cosmic bowling & golf specials.

feature 10 Shop with us for best gifts We’re giving you 25 unique gift ideas you can find right here at JBLM.

adventures 14 Head to the snow

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Make the most of winter recreation with backcountry skiing, snowshoeing & mountain climbing.

sports, fitness & aquatics 20 Get fit for free & wear your ugly sweater for fun run

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Get a quality workout for free at JBLM fitness centers; enter the 5K Jingle Bell Jog & 1K Reindeer Romp

youth 22 Enjoy seasonal fun for youth Attend SKIESUnlimited’s “Nutcracker,” play at Holiday Fest, take youth dance & sign up for winter sports for youth.

military & Family readiness 24 Strategies for Family togetherness help keep you close

20 Photo: Scott Hansen (20)

FROM THE COVER Holiday fun at JBLM

Cover photo by Scott Hansen \ Northwest Guardian

Register now for the 5K Jingle Bell Jog & 1K Reindeer Romp (page 20). Plus, there’s tons of festive holiday fun throughout this issue.

Make the most of the holidays with tips, free classes, holiday luncheon, tree decorating & more.

libraries 30 Celebrate the season with free library events Holiday events — such as the Winter Reading Program, holiday open house, yule ball & New Year’s Eve party — join your favorite library programs. They’re all free!

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focus | Joint Base Lewis-McChord Family and MWR fun, food, travel & well-being guide

Happy holidays to you and yours from the JBLM Family and MWR team

FOCUS JBLM Family & MWR

The holidays are in full swing, and it’s a time for Family and friends, love and

Creative director

from the 5K Jingle Bell Jog & 1K Reindeer Romp (complete with an ugly sweater con-

Promotions director

test) and Breakfast with Santa. Turn to page 20 for race registration details and page 6

Editor & graphic designer

for details on having a meal with our friend from the North Pole.

Writer/graphic designer

Love cookies, pies and other holiday desserts but don’t have time to bake? Satisfy your sweet teeth with help from the dessert experts at American Lake Conference Center. Turn to page 7 for details on ordering your tasty treats. These desserts make great gifts for neighbors, coworkers and friends and there are even more gift-giving ideas in this month’s feature on page 12. If you need inspiration for one-of-a-kind gifts, we have 25 ideas lined up for you — and you can get them all at Family and MWR facilities.

Make this holiday extra special for your children — turn to the military & Family readiness section on page 26 for suggestions on traditions and strengthening parenting. Plus, Child & Youth Services is hosting the annual Holiday Fest (page 23) and JBLM libraries invite you to join the Winter Reading Program (page 30).

Wishing you a happy, healthy and safe holiday season, William E. Harvey Director, Family & MWR at JBLM

Happy holidays from the team in the business of

making you smile since 1972.

Cosmetic, implant and sedation dentistry Free child care in the Smile Zone

Schedule a complimentary consultation: 253.582.5050 6001-100th St SW in Lakewood | DHAonline.com

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Director, Family & MWR William E. Harvey

laughter. JBLM Family and MWR has great events to get you in the holiday spirit —

Joint Base Lewis-McChord Focus December 2016

Toby Bartley Kelly Wetzel Kimberly Rowe Patti Jeffrey

Contributors Rick DeChaineau, Jackie Kelly and Antoinette Walker Contributing photographers Scott Hansen For commercial sponsorship or advertising inquiries, off-base businesses, call Angela Frasier at 253-966-2256.

Submissions are welcome but may be edited for accuracy, clarity and style. Photo submissions, accompanied by a release from the photographer and the Family/individual are also accepted. Send full-resolution (1–4 MB) jpgs to kimberly.rowe@JBLMmwr.com. The editor reserves the right to use photos for any future Focus publication in print and online without restrictions. Photos may be resized for magazine formats. Photographer will be given credit.

The JBLM “FOCUS” is an unofficial monthly information source.

Activities described herein, which are open to authorized patrons and, where applicable, guests, are subject to change; contact the activity for confirmation. Opinions are those of the authors and do not necessarily represent Family & MWR, Joint Base Lewis-McChord or any U.S. government entity. The use of a commercial sponsor logo or mention of a commercial sponsor or other organization does not constitute U.S. government endorsement.

Visit us at JBLMmwr.com or fb.com/JBLMFamilyMWR.

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BREAKFAST WITH SANTA Sign up for Breakfast with Santa Santa’s looking forward to having company for breakfast Saturday, Dec. 17! Join in the fun when you reserve your places for Breakfast with Santa at the Club at McChord Field from 10:30 a.m.–noon.

Also bring your camera for a photo with Santa and let your kiddos create and take home a holiday craft with help from the Arts & Crafts Center. Family or individual photos with Santa taken by MWR staff will also be made available online.

The cost is $13 for ages 10 and older, $10 for ages 3–9 and $2 for ages 2 and younger. Advanced purchase is required; call 253-982-5581. Payments can be made by phone.

The Club is located at 700 Barnes Blvd.

NEW LUNCH MENU New grill opening for lunch The Club at McChord Field’s new grill will be opening soon, serving lunch from 11 a.m.–1 p.m. weekdays! The fresh new look and brand-new menu feature a huge salad bar full of healthy and tasty items along with the soup of the day, plus a new pasta bar. You’ll be able to order hot meals from the grill and your favorite sandwiches, too. Menu items include Italian, Cuban, Mediterranean, hoagie and chicken sandwiches and a variety of grilled beef, chicken and barbecued chicken burgers (all served with fries).

The Club is located at 700 Barnes Blvd.

Call 253-982-5581 for more information.

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Joint Base Lewis-McChord Focus December 2016

HOLIDAY DESSERTS Order homemade holiday desserts Not into baking or don’t have time for finding fancy dessert recipes? Order freshly baked festive desserts from American Lake Conference Center! Place your order a week ahead for parties, meals and cookie exchanges!

Choose from freshly made fruit, cream, holiday and pumpkin pies. A variety of cookies and assorted cookie platters have all your favorites. Candies, flavored fudge platters, cakes, pound cakes and bread pudding are also available.

For the entire selection with prices, visit AmericanLakeConferenceCenter.com or call 253-966-4998. American Lake Conference Center is located at Lewis North, 8085 NCO Beach Rd.

BREAKFAST BURRITOS Habañero serves tasty breakfast burritos Habañero Mexican Grill at Whispering Firs Golf Course serves breakfast burritos from 7 a.m.–10:30 a.m. weekdays. (Breakfast burritos are also available at Battle Bean inside McChord Field’s Bldg. 100’s customer service mall 7–11 a.m. weekdays.) Try one out today for a fast pick-up breakfast!

Habañero is at 895 Lincoln Blvd. Call 253-982-3271 for more information.

Enjoy food specials with events at the Warrior Zone You know that food and fun make for a great time, and the Warrior Zone delivers!

• Saturday, Dec. 10, purchase the UFC 206 patio buffet special — Salisbury

Sam Adams treats you to dinner

steak or cheeseburger meals for $5.50.

Come on over to Samuel Adams JBLM for dinner — it’s the only sit-down dinner at JBLM! Thursdays–Mondays,

Each meal includes your choice of two

enjoy appetizers, salads, flatbread

sides (potato salad, baked beans or mashed potatoes).

• Come in for free hot chocolate and

pizzas, sandwiches, burgers and more.

cookies Sunday, Dec. 25 — the staff’s

Relax with a cold Sam Adams specialty

way of wishing you a happy holiday.

brew and get discounts with happy hour specials from 4–6 p.m.

Also come out for other events:

• Saturday, Dec. 30 during UFC 207, take advantage of the beer brats or cheeseburger patio specials for $5.50

• Friday, Dec. 9. from 4 p.m.–midnight,

each. Two sides comes with your meal

wear your ugliest sweater for prizes,

(choose mac ‘n cheese, baked beans or

plus enjoy giveaways and live DJ music.

• Watch UFC 206 starting at 7 p.m.

Saturday, Dec. 10 for a $5 cover.

Sam Adams is at 2400 Bitar Ave. and Division at Lewis Main. For more details, call 253-964-2012.

pasta salad).

• The staff’s cooking up a special spread for the New Year’s Eve party Sunday, Dec. 31! You’re invited to purchase pork ribs or chicken breast meals that include green beans, rice pilaf and a

side salad. The pork rib meal is $8 and the chicken breast meal is $6.50.

Also take part in regular specials: • Happy hour weekdays from 5–7 p.m.

Draft beer pitchers are $2 off, and a draft beer cup or bottled beer are each $1 off.

• Margarita Monday specials during the game feature flavored margarita pitchers for $6.50 and a 7-inch pepperoni pizza, plus six Buffalo wings for $10.95.

• The first five people to sign up for any gaming tourney receive $2 off a meal in the Zone.

The Warrior Zone is located on the corner of 17th and D streets at Lewis North.

Call the Zone at 253-477-5835/33.

JOIN THE CLUB & SAVE The Club appreciates its members Club members, you’re being appreciated at a free dinner at the Club at McChord Field Wednesday, Dec. 21 from 5–7 p.m. with door prizes given away during dinner. Family members and guests can also attend for $5 each.

The Club is at 700 Barnes Blvd. For more information, call 253-982-5581.

Football Frenzy food & fun Starting at 5 p.m., members of the Club at McChord Field can come watch the NFL Thursday Night game for a chance to win tickets to the 2017 Super Bowl (the club is closed Dec. 29). Enjoy a new steak special from 5–7 p.m., draft beer and happy hour food specials.

Register for the drawing to win two Super Bowl tickets (including transportation and lodging), a $100 electronic gift card for NFL merchandise, halftime football trivia game, plus prizes and door prize drawings. Every time you attend, your chances of winning the Super Bowl ticket package get better!

Become a member in December and receive your first two months’ dues free — get an application for membership in the office at 700 Barnes Blvd. at McChord Field. Call 253-982-5581 for details.

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SHARE GOOD TIMES Sit back & relax on your way to tree lighting festival Want to see some holiday magic? Plan now to take a motorcoach trip with Leisure Travel Services from Lewis Main to the mountain village of Leavenworth for the Christmas Lighting Festival Saturdays, Dec. 10 and 17.

See Santa and costumed characters arrive at noon, listen to live music, buy roasted chestnuts and hot cider, sled in the park and look in awe at the incredible lighting of the village at 4:30 p.m.

The cost is $45 per passenger for ages 5 and older. (The trip isn’t recommended for children ages 4 and younger due to the long ride and 14-hour day.)

Call 253-967-3085/2050 to reserve your spots before they’re gone!

Get in on golf sale of the year Save on gifts for your favorite golfer (or for yourself)! Come out and save on golf merchandise at Whispering Firs’ and Eagles Pride’s annual holiday sale through Friday, Dec. 23. (The sale excludes PING.) The more you spend, the more chances

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Joint Base Lewis-McChord Focus December 2016

you have to win when you pull a candy cane off the tree! You can even place special orders with the sale price at Whispering Firs through Friday, Dec. 2.

Also get a chance to win door prizes while you sample free holiday treats.

For more information, call Eagles Pride at 253-967-6522 or Whispering Firs at 253-982-2124. Eagles Pride is located off I-5 Exit 116. Whispering Firs is at 895 Lincoln Blvd. at McChord Field.

IT’S A CELEBRATION Ring in the New Year at Sounders Lanes’ Family party Enjoy New Year’s Eve with your friends and Family at Sounders Lanes and ring in 2017 on East Coast time. The doors open at 6:30 p.m. and bowling starts at 7. The party includes pizza, finger foods and veggies, the laser maze, party favors, a glass of sparkling cider to ring in the new year and door prizes.

The cost per person is $25; you must purchase your tickets in advance (limited to 72 people). Get your spaces saved early; this popular party sells out fast! For more information and tickets, call Sounders Lanes at 253-982-5954.

Sounders Lanes is at McChord Field at 737 Jackson Blvd.

The WZ celebrates New Year’s Eve Ages 18 and older have a place to celebrate a rockin’ New Year’s Eve — at Lewis North’s Warrior Zone! Invite your friends to the party starting at 9 p.m. with a patio buffet, deejay, dance floor, all-evening gaming tourneys that begin before the party (pool tourney at 8, NBA2k17 at 8:30) and lots of cheer. Call 253-477-5756 for more info.

The Warrior Zone is at the corner of 17th and D streets.

FUN FOR EVERYONE Homebrewers can compete for ‘Best of JBLM’ & ‘Best of DOD’ If you’re into making homebrew, start your mash and get ready to enter your best batches into the 2017 JBLM homebrew competition for bragging rights — Best of JBLM or Best of DOD. Military competitors who identify themselves at registration also have a chance at the Commander’s Cup award.

Online registration is open Jan. 1–30.

Competition is only open to beer (ciders

YOU CAN AFFORD TO GOLF AT JBLM WITH WINTER DEALS

and meads will not be judged). The fee is $7 per entry. Entries will be judged by certified experts Saturday, Feb. 4.

Winners will be announced at Brewfest Feb. 10.

Event organizers are encouraging homebrewers to provide samples at Brewfest, where winners will be announced and awarded prizes and medals.

The event is an AHA/BJCP sanctioned competition, hosted by JBLM MWR and Homebrewers of Puget Sound.

Call 253-967-5776 for more information, or visit JBLMmwr.com/brewfest.

hink you can’t afford to golf? Think again — seasonal deals make golfing more affordable, and the mild climate keeps our courses open year-round!

Have crazy fun with your own photo booth pics

The $59 JBLM Fall/Winter Golf Pass keeps you in the game

Have fun taking your own funky and funny photo booth pictures — a new addition at Sounders Lanes Family Fun Center! Pay only $5 for two classic fourphoto strips (your choice of color, black and white or sepia) or a 4-by-6-inch photo.

Sounders Lanes is at 737 Jackson Blvd. at McChord Field. Call 253-982-5954 for more details.

Like to golf year-round at Eagles Pride or Whispering Firs golf courses? Purchase a $59 Fall/Winter Golf Pass!

The pass includes your first round of golf with 50 percent off green fees seven days a week for future rounds (excluding Christmas Day, tournaments and specials). The pass is good through Friday, March 31, 2017.

For more information, call Eagles Pride at 253-967-6522 or Whispering Firs at 253-982-2124.

NEW BOWLING SPECIALS Bring everyone to cosmic bowling Every Saturday from 5:30–11 p.m., bowl two hours of Cosmic Blacklight Bowling at Sounders Lanes Family Fun Center for only $12 per person, including shoe rental. Sounders Lanes is located at McChord Field at 737 Jackson Blvd. For more details, call 253-982-5954.

For other weekly specials, visit JBLMmwr.com/bowling.

T

Take advantage of golf specials Save big and stay in practice with December golf specials at Eagles Pride or Whispering Firs golf courses at JBLM: • Receive two-for-one green fees Wednesdays all day at Whispering Firs and Mondays all day at Eagles Pride (discount is based on 18-hole play).

• All green fees are $10 after 10 a.m.

Mondays at Eagles Pride and Wednesdays at Whispering Firs.

• Pay for one regularly priced green fee and get the second half-off Sundays after 11 a.m. at either golf course (the lowest-priced green fee will be discounted).

• Active duty military and your Families get two-for-one range balls; three buckets per day limit at either golf course. Purchase tokens in the pro shop.

• Everyone receives a $7 green fee, $7 cart rental and $7 club rental on Pearl Harbor Day, Wednesday, Dec. 7.

(Specials cannot be combined with other specials or used for outings/tournaments.)

Stay in top form or learn the game Want to learn golf or keep in top form during fall and winter? Ask about individual lessons with our resident golf pros!

JBLM GOLF COURSES Eagles Pride Golf Course Located off I-5 Exit 116 253-967-6522 • Open to the public Whispering Firs Golf Course 895 Lincoln Blvd., McChord Field 253-982-2124

Arts & Crafts Center December Clip ‘n Save Coupons

Parents bowl free Tuesdays Every Tuesday in December, kids ages 15 and younger can bring their parents bowling for free at Bowl Arena Lanes.

Up to two adults per child can bowl free for two hours (shoe rental not included).

Kids’ price is $7, including shoe rental.

Bowl Arena Lanes is at 2272 Liggett Ave. at Lewis Main. For more information, call 253-967-4661.

50% Off Stocking Embroidery (discount on name embroidery only)

Limit one coupon per customer.

Valid only when presented in person.

No photocopies accepted. No cash value.

Coupon is good Dec. 1–31, 2016.

$5 Off Canvas-Painting Class (discount applies to instruction only)

Limit one coupon per customer per class.

Valid only when presented in person.

No photocopies accepted. No cash value.

Coupon is good Dec. 1–31, 2016.

Arts & Crafts Center at McChord Field • 1121 Barnes Blvd. • 253-982-6726 JBLMmwr.com

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At your fingertips—civilian doctors for active duty families.

By US Family Health Plan.

USFHP, a TRICARE Prime® option, partners with high-quality medical groups in your area to give military families more healthcare choices.

• Find doctors near your home for every member of your family—children and adults • Get a same-day appointment for urgent care • Choose from a wide network of civilian doctors and clinics • Go to civilian hospitals whenever your family needs hospital care, including surgery and childbirth • Choose from a wide network of civilian doctors off-post It’s easy to sign up—and get access right away to civilian doctors close to home.

Call 1 (866) 418-7346 or visit www.USFHPnw.org/Doctors today!

TRICARE is a registered trademark of the Department of Defense. Defense Health Agency. All rights reserved.

To find a doctor that ‘s right for you visit www.USFHPnw.org/Doctors and click on “Find a primary care provider”.

Proudly creating smiles for our military and their families.

253-582-1611 10025 Gravelly Lake Dr. SW in Lakewood

gldsmiles.com

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Joint Base Lewis-McChord Focus December 2016

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eed some inspiration for holiday gifts for those hard-to-shop-for people?

Some of the best gifts are those that are customized.

Let us help you find one-ofa-kind gifts right here at JBLM that don’t cost a lot!

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Buy a bag of freshly roasted Battle Bean coffee beans from Battle Bean at Stone Education Center for coffee lovers in your circle of friends.

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Purchase a Battle Bean character ornament or plush toy from Battle Bean at Stone Education Center for the kid in everyone.

3 Find pewter ornaments from the JBLM Arts & Crafts Center collection at McChord Field. Buy a specially crafted JBLM ornament or select from Pacific Northwest-themed ornaments.

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Joint Base Lewis-McChord Focus December 2016

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Create a custom photo jigsaw puzzle from Arts & Crafts — made from your favorite photo.

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Order a porcelain photo-ornament from Arts & Crafts printed on both front and back with your own photo.

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Personalize your Families’ Christmas stockings with Arts & Crafts embroidery services. See page 9 for a half-off coupon to bring with you!

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Go to Arts & Crafts for custom-made wooden ornaments.

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Order a glass mug with laser-etched custom lettering at Arts & Crafts.

Use it at home or when you all go out for brew at Samuel Adams Brewhouse JBLM.

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Order a custom photo coffee mug from Arts & Crafts.

10 Order a custom shadow box from Arts & Crafts to preserve an autographed sports jersey.

11 Special-order a display case to protect a sports collectible (available in small to extra-large sizes for anything from a golf ball to a football helmet).

12 Choose a pewter wine cork from Arts & Crafts’ pewter selections.

13 Purchase an in-stock games set (chess, backgammon, golf and cribbage) from Arts & Crafts’ gift store.

14 Buy eco-friendly bamboo gifts from Arts & Crafts’ gift store — choose from a barbecue set, pizza board, cutting board, cheese board with metal cutter or four-piece cheese set with tools. (More bamboo gifts are available by special order). Add engraving for the perfect custom gift.

15 For wine-lovers, purchase an instock five-piece tool set with glasses or the four-piece wine tool set from Arts & Crafts’ gift store. You can order engraving on the glasses for an extra-special touch.

16 Find discounted golf clothing, select golf clubs and accessories from golf pro shop sales at Eagles Pride or Whispering Firs golf courses (see page 8 for details).

17 Purchase a discount CityPass from Leisure Travel Services at Lewis Main and take your Family out on the town to Seattle. If you didn’t squeeze in all the sights, take your friends to additional sights in Seattle within the nine-day time frame.

18 Get discount movie passes from LTS. Choose either single economy tickets or packages that are a complete gift for two to enjoy a night out (first-run movie tickets, drink, popcorn and snack vouchers or gift certificate).

19 Plan discount vacations at LTS to your favorite tourist attractions in Florida and California and surprise your kiddos with a vacation they’ll always remember.

For information on MWR facilities’ hours of operation, phones and locations, visit JBLMmwr.com.

20 Buy some swag gifts at Samuel Adams Brewhouse JBLM, such as T-shirts, sweatshirts, mugs and more.

21 Purchase outdoor gloves, hats and snow sports accessories for your winter sports enthusiast from Adventures Unlimited at McChord Field.

22 Surprise someone with a January snowshoe trip with the Outdoor Recreation program (see page 14).

23 Give a gift of beginning scuba lessons from the Outdoor Recreation program. Winter’s the very best time to learn — you learn in an indoor pool and get certified in the Puget Sound where the water is crystal clear for seeing abundant sea life.

24 If a friend or spouse has a new camera, take them on a gorgeous outdoor photography trip to learn how to use their camera — sign up with Outdoor Recreation.

25 Surprise a friend or your Family with a bald eagle float trip or sea kayak trip with the Outdoor Recreation guides (see page 8 for details).

Many special-order gifts must be ordered two or three weeks before Christmas from the Arts & Crafts Center; please call first.

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E x p l o re Wa s h i n g to n’s

Head to the snow for adventures Make the most of winter’s cold, wet weather and head for the slopes and snow-covered trails with the Outdoor Recreation program! Whether you want to give backcountry skiing a try or to prepare for a summit attempt of Denali with a winter expedition mountaineering seminar, check out the trip descriptions on the following pages and the calendar on page 19. Sign up for your winter adventure today at JBLMmwrRegistration.com. /SeeYouOutsideJBLM

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Joint Base Lewis-McChord Focus December 2016

Alpine Club meeting

Climbers are invited to the Alpine Club meeting Wednesday, Jan. 4 at 6 p.m. The activity and meeting location differ each month.

Members, check out JBLMalpineclub. blogspot.com for additional information.

(Free)

Bald eagle SUP/photo excursion Many people will never get to see the majestic bald eagle in its natural habitat, but we’ll float down the docile Skagit River on paddleboards among one of the largest concentrations of bald eagles in the Lower

winter wonderland

with outdoor recreation 48 Saturdays, Jan. 7 and Jan. 14. Don’t worry about getting cold, as you’ll wear an insulated wetsuit that will keep you very warm. If paddling down the river isn’t for you, then sign up for the optional photography excursion available with either trip. The photo excursion follows the Skagit River as you learn how to take wildlife photos. You’ll also visit many of the eagle’s habitats in the area. Depart from the Northwest Adventure Center at Lewis North at 7 a.m. ($75)

Bella Donna backcountry skiing Winter

is here and this Saturday, Jan. 7 is a ladies-only trip designed with every level in mind. There are slopes if you’re still feeling out this activity. For the more confident skiers or boarders, nearby peaks offer a great ride on true alpine terrain. Let your guides lead you on an adventure. Ground transportation, backcountry ski or split snowboard, avalanche beacon, shovel, probe and airbag included. ($95)

skills, this Sunday, Dec. 18 trip is a good

Bellingham beach bouldering

Center at Lewis North at 7 a.m. ($75)

If you’re interested in learning rock climbing

place to start! Spend a day on the beach of Larrabee State Park exploring the incredible sandstone features on the famous Chuckanut Drive. The Puget Sound comes right up to the rocks as you scamper around, practicing strength and endurance on any of the vast bouldering routes. Weather may be cold, so bring appropriate clothing. Minimum age: 16.

Depart from the Northwest Adventure Continued on page 18.

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Insta

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#JBLMmwrLife FOLLOWING

FOLLOW @JBLMmwr

PLAY #JBLMmwrLife rules will be p

WIN You could win two Seahawks ti a prize-filled 6-foot stocking

LEWIS-McCHORD We ride together

GO Lewis-M c Chord provides convenient, affordable transportation options

GO TRANSIT

GO VANPOOL

GO BIKE

Ride for free around JBLM — Most government employees Borrow a bike for use on and even evenings and weekends! are eligible for a free ride to and around JBLM for up to 30 days.

Connect with Sound Transit, from work with a vanpool.

Pierce Transit and Intercity Transit for travel to Lakewood, Seattle and more. /GoLewisMcChord & GoLewisMcChord.com 16 Joint Base Lewis-McChord Focus December 2016

contest

INSTAGRAM CONTEST

RUNS DEC 1–12

posted on @JBLMmwr and fb.com/JBLMmwr Dec. 1

ickets to the Dec. 24 game against the Cardinals or

McChord Library Noon Year’s Eve December 30 11:30 a.m.

Warrior Zone New Year’s Eve Bash December 31 9 p.m.-2 a.m.

Pool tourney at 8 p.m.

Sounders Lanes Family New Year’s Eve December 31 Doors open at 6:30 p.m.

Advance ticket purchase required.

18+ only

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photographs. No Photoshop experience

Continued from page 15.

Cross-country ski Hyak

Ski along

Keechelus Lake near Snoqualmie Pass with the Outdoor Recreation program.

Saturday, Jan. 14 will be a great day in the snow-filled Cascades! Gear, transportation and basic instruction are provided. Go to the Northwest Adventure Center to be fitted for your gear no later than the day before the trip. Difficulty:

course, please bring a laptop with Photoshop installed. Practice images will be provided, but feel free to bring any images you want to work on. Minimum age: 12. Meet at the Northwest Adventure Center at Lewis North at 9 a.m. Location subject to change due to renovation. ($45)

easy; distance: 5 miles; time: 3 hours.

Sea kayak Deception Pass

Depart from the Northwest Adventure

the waters of Deception Pass is truly an

Center at Lewis North at 8 a.m. or

adventure! Not a beginner paddle, the pass

McChord Field’s Adventures Unlimited

offers opportunities to paddle in strong

Snowshoe Lake Ann Hike your way

at 8:15. ($65)

currents and develop an appreciation for

through the views of this amazing state!

tidal influence. This Sunday, Jan. 15 is a

The Pacific Northwest is such a unique

great way to expand your skills. This trip

location, its mountains offer visitors

is geared toward instruction to advance

tranquility in its vast forest. Lake Ann is

your skills in difficult conditions. Trip

nestled at the base of Stewart Mountain

includes gear, guide and transportation.

in the Central Cascades. Surrounded

Bring appropriate clothing and food.

by peaks, the views from this snowshoe

Difficulty: intermediate–advanced;

adventure Sunday, Jan. 8 won’t disappoint.

paddling distance: 5 miles; paddling

Minimum age: 12 (guests younger than 18

time 4–5 hours. Minimum age: 16. Meet

must be accompanied by a parent/guard-

at the Northwest Adventure at Lewis

ian). Difficulty: easy/moderate; distance:

North at 7 a.m. ($95)

8.2 miles round-trip; time: 4–5 hours.

Introduction to backcountry skiing Whether you’re wanting to get into skiing or want to take the plunge into the backcountry with your skills, this class is for you. Friday, Dec. 30 and Sunday, Jan. 15 are educational days that will teach you everything from how to set up your ski kit and how to engage the avalanche float bags to perfecting your turns in deep powder. Get away from the lift lines and learn how to earn your turns

Moonlight snowshoe

Kayaking

Sea kayak skills class

anywhere the snow falls. ($95) Snowshoe on

the Snoqualmie Pass trails by the light of the moon Thursday, Jan. 12. Gear, guide, instruction and transportation provided. Difficulty: beginner; distance: 1.5 miles; elevation gain: 50 feet; time: 2 hours. Minimum age: 12. Depart from the Northwest Adventure Center at Lewis North at 5:30 p.m. or McChord Field’s Adventures Unlimited at 5:45. ($55)

Depart from the Northwest Adventure

Outdoor Recreation offers five levels of two-hour kayak skills classes.

Snowshoe or hike Paradise Discover the

• Level one: proper paddling techniques

beauty of Mount Rainier on snowshoeing

and how to buddy-rescue.

• Level two: edging maneuvers and selfrescue.

• Level three: recovery techniques and muscle memory exercises for the roll.

• Level four: multiday kayak trip prep and t-rescue.

Center at Lewis North at 6:30 a.m. ($90)

trails that offer something for everybody.

Saturday, Dec. 17, travel along Mount Rainier’s Glacier Vista Trail while exploring the best route up to Panorama Point.

Difficulty: moderate to difficult; distance: 3 miles; time: three hours. Minimum age: 12 (guests younger than 18 must be

• Level five: the roll.

The next sea kayak skills class is Saturday, Dec. 17. Start at any time and master as many levels as you’d like! Meet at Kimbro Pool inside McVeigh Sports & Fitness Center at 7:30 p.m. Minimum age: 12 ($25)

accompanied by a parent/guardian).

with this Saturday, Jan. 14 workshop.

Seattle night photography This class

Edit content to output to web, print or

starts as the sun sets Saturday, Dec. 17.

Learn how to capture images shooting directly into the sun and how to capture our beautiful city at night! Learn

Winter expedition mountaineering seminar Mount Rainier is one of the pre-

Photoshop for photography

Learn

to manipulate images, improve access to the elements of the software, gain greater editing freedom and significant image enhancement techniques

mobile devices. This course provides hands-on practical insight into skills to use Photoshop effectively when editing

18

required. To get full advantage of the

techniques of isolating aperture and shutter speed to capture different types of nighttime shots and how to capture motion blur. It’s important to have a basic understanding on how to adjust aperture, shutter speed and ISO. Bring your camera, fully charged battery, tripod and comfortable walking shoes.

Minimum age: 12 (guests younger than 18 must be accompanied by a parent/ guardian). Depart from the Northwest Adventure Center at Lewis North at 3:30 p.m. ($65)

Joint Base Lewis-McChord Focus December 2016

Guide, gear, instruction and transportation are provided. Meet at the Northwest Adventure Center at Lewis North at 8 a.m. or McChord Field’s Adventures Unlimited at 8:15. ($65)

mier locations in the country for winter mountaineering. The Winter Expedition Skills Seminar Jan. 14–17 offers train-

ing and mountaineering on glaciers and in weather and temperature conditions similar to Alaska and the Himalayas.

After a day of technical training, begin the ascent to Camp Muir where you’ll use the mountain hut as base while learning mountaineering skills oriented toward cold weather, high altitude expedition climbing, avalanche forecasting and avalanche rescue. If weather and climbing conditions allow, the group will make a summit attempt via the Ingraham Glacier as the culmination of the winter mountaineering experience. This is the premiere training event prior to a summit attempt on Denali! Minimum age: 16. ($750)

Trees for Troops: Delivering the spirit of Christmas to military Families — one Christmas tree at a time.

Trees for Troops is back at JBLM starting Saturday, Dec. 3 at 9 a.m. for E-5 and below! Stay tuned to JBLMmwr.com and fb.com/JBLMmwr for details.

What is Trees for Troops?

For many years, Christmas tree growers have been providing free trees for charitable purposes. In the 1990s, some organized efforts started through which trees were given to National Guard units and other military personnel who were deployed in peacekeeping efforts in Kosovo and other regions of the world. In 2005, the National Christmas Tree Association developed the Christmas SPIRIT Foundation as a 501(c)(3) charitable organization to advance the spirit of Christmas year-round. The foundation quickly developed plans for a national Trees for Troops program to unify the individual programs of tree growers and state Christmas tree associations.

Winter photography

Winter is a special time at Mount Rainier National Park!

The rewards are many for photographers in pursuit of dramatic compositions. In this Sunday, Jan. 8 workshop, you’ll have the opportunity to make winter images from a variety of locations, exploring different compositional methods. Bring camera, tripod and extra batteries.

Outdoor adventure

Date

Cost

Details

Transportation, instruction and snow-

Sea kayak skills class

Saturday, Dec. 17

$25

Minimum age: 12

shoes are included. Minimum age: 12

Seattle night photography

Saturday, Dec. 17

$65

Minimum age: 12

(guests younger than 18 must be accom-

Snowshoe or hike Paradise

Saturday, Dec. 17

$65

Minimum age: 12

panied by a parent/guardian). Depart

Bellingham beach bouldering

Sunday, Dec. 18

$75

Minimum age: 16

from the Northwest Center at Lewis North at 8 a.m. ($65)

Introduction to backcountry skiing

Friday, Dec. 30

$95

Alpine Club meeting

Wednesday, Jan. 4

FREE

Bald eagle SUP/photo excursion

Saturday, Jan. 7

$75

Winter scramble/snow camping

Want something more than simple snowshoeing but less than technical mountaineering? This Jan. 7–8 trip is for you! Travel to majestic Mount Rainier and head up into the amazing Tatoosh Range for a moderate alpine hike. After setting up camp in the snowy meadows near Reflection Lake, travel up to the summit of Pinnacle Peak for amazing views. This nontechnical climb up snow is moderately strenuous and requires the use of an ice axe, which you’ll learn to use. Don’t miss out on this trip in the beautiful alpine region of Washington state! Minimum age: 16. ($170)

Bella Donna backcountry skiing

Saturday, Jan. 7

$95

Winter scramble/snow camping

Jan. 7–8

$170

Minimum age: 16

Snowshoe Lake Ann

Sunday, Jan. 8

$90

Minimum age: 12

Winter photography

Sunday, Jan. 8

$65

Minimum age: 12

Moonlight snowshoe

Thursday, Jan. 12

$55

Minimum age: 12

Winter expedition mountaineering seminar

Jan. 14–17

$750

Minimum age: 16

Cross-country ski Hyak

Saturday, Jan. 14

$65

Bald eagle SUP/photo excursion

Saturday, Jan. 14

$75

Photoshop for photography

Saturday, Jan. 14

$45

Minimum age: 12

Introduction to backcountry skiing

Sunday, Jan. 15

$95

Minimum age: 16

Sea kayak Deception Pass

Sunday, Jan. 15

$95

Minimum age: 16

Preregistration is required for all trips; prices and schedule are subject to change without notice. Anyone younger than 18 must be accompanied by an adult.

Gear and transportation are included unless otherwise stated. Register via WebTrac (visit JBLMmwrRegistration.com) or at the Northwest Adventure Center at Lewis North. Confirm pick-up locations and times upon registration. Group rates and private trips are available; call for details. We’ll visit FRG meetings or unit functions to tell you about the great recreation and adventure options in the area. For more information, call 253-967-6263 or visit JBLMmwr.com.

Especially accommodates exceptional needs

Popular with Families

Led by NAC expert guides

JBLMmwr.com

19

focus | sports, fitness & aquatics

/JBLMSportsFitnessAquatics /JBLMraces

Register for the 5K Jingle Bell Jog & 1K Reindeer Romp at JBLMmwr.com/races 20

Joint Base Lewis-McChord Focus December 2016

Scott Hansen\Northwest Guardian

It’s time for the Jingle Bell Jog! Register the entire Family for the annual holiday race and take a free fitness class jingle bell jog & reindeer romp

Race for the finish and participate in the 2nd annual Ugly Sweater Contest The 5K Jingle Bell Jog & 1K Reindeer Romp is Saturday, Dec. 10 at American Lake Conference Center. Register online at JBLMmwr.com/races by Wednesday, Dec. 7; prices increase for day-of-race registration. The Reindeer Romp starts at 10 a.m., followed by the 5K at 10:45.

5K Jingle Bell Jog rates: • DOD ID card: $20; day-of $30.

• No DOD ID: $30; day-of $40.

1K Reindeer Romp rates: • DOD ID card: $10; day-of $20.

• No DOD ID: $15; day-of $25.

Don’t forget your ugly sweater for the ugly sweater contest! There will be a drawing for two airline tickets anywhere in the United States provided by Delta airlines.

getting fit

Fit in a quality work out at one of JBLM’s five-star fitness centers JBLM’s sports and fitness centers help make Service members, Families and DOD civilians fit for freedom and fit for life. With six fitness centers, a fitness annex, three pools and outdoor athletic fields, Sports, Fitness and Aquatics has what you need to fit in your work out.

Choose from aerobics classes, cardio workout rooms, saunas, courts and intramural sports.

Sports and fitness centers are:

Soldiers Field House

Jensen Family Health and Fitness Center

3236 Handrich (off 2nd Division Drive) at Lewis Main 253-967-4771

2022 Liggett Ave. at Lewis Main 253-967-5975

McChord Fitness Center

Wilson Sports and Fitness Center

729 5th St. at McChord Field 253-982-6707

11596 D St. (at 41st Division Drive) at Lewis North 253-967-7471

McChord Fitness Center Annex 726 5th St. at McChord Field 253-982-6700

McVeigh Sports and Fitness Center 2160 Liggett Ave. at Lewis Main 253-967-5869 Jensen Family Health & Fitness Center | 2022 Liggett Ave. at Lewis Main (253-967-5975)

Time

Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

Thursday

6:45 a.m.

9 a.m.

10 a.m.

11:30 a.m.

Gentle Yoga

Step Circuit

Circuit

Zumba

Yoga

Zumba

Zumba

Yoga

Yoga

Zumba Toning

Zumba

Wellbeats: Indoor Cycling

Wellbeats: Indoor Cycling

3:30 p.m.

Zumba

4:30 p.m.

5:30 p.m.

Friday Wellbeats: Indoor Cycling

Cardio Kickboxing

Zumba

Zumba

Wellbeats: Circuit

Yin Yoga

Zumba

McChord Fitness Center Annex | 726 5th St. at McChord Field (253-982-6700)

Time

Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

Thursday

Friday

7–7:45 a.m.

Bootcamp

noon–1 p.m.

Bootcamp

Cycling Circuit

Bootcamp

TRX

4:45–5:45 p.m.

Zumba

Kickboxing

Zumba

Beliraq

Kickboxing

5:45–6:45 p.m.

MixxedFit

Core & More

MixxedFit

TRX

MixxedFit

1–2 p.m.

Soldiers Field House | 3236 Handrich at 2nd Division Drive (253-967-4771)

Time 6:45 a.m.

Monday Indoor Cycling

Tuesday

Wednesday

Thursday

Friday

Indoor Cycling

Schedule is current as of time of printing. Visit JBLMmwr.com/fitness for the latest information.

JBLMmwr.com

21

focus | youth

celebrate the holidays,

/JBLMcyss

22

Joint Base Lewis-McChord Focus December 2016

have fun with cys Welcome new Families!

School Liaison Office helps make your student’s first day of school a smooth transition

By Antoinette Walker JBLM School Liaison Officer

JBLM Child & Youth Services’s School Liaison Officers are proud to serve your Family! We’re so glad you’re here! No doubt, you have a few questions: • What information will you need to enroll your child in school?

• Will your students wear uniforms?

• When does school start?

• Where does the bus pick up?

• What happens to my child’s IEP when she starts at a new school?

• Will my child’s credits transfer?

• What about extracurricular activities?

Don’t worry! These are all common questions, and the School Liaison Office has your answers. Whether you’re new to the area, or you already call one of the 23 surrounding school districts home, the office can provide you with information that will help your student’s first day of school be a smoother transition. College and tutoring information is also available, and we can even share ways to feed your kid’s brains during summer.

We’re your School Liaison Officers, and we’re proud to serve you. The office is located in Waller Hall in the Armed Forces Community Service section and is open weekdays 8 a.m.–4:30 p.m. Email usarmy. jblm.imcom.list.dfmwr-cys-schools-liaison@ mail.mil, call 253-967-7195 or stop on by! We look forward to meeting you. For up-to-date information, visit fb.com/JBLMcyss.

holiday fest

Come to Hillside Youth Center for seasonal Family fun Kick off winter break with Child & Youth Services at the annual Holiday Fest! Bring the entire Family to Hillside Youth Center for fun, friends and holiday cheer Saturday, Dec. 17. The fun is from noon–4 p.m. and includes carnival games, make-and-take crafts and cookie decorating, face painting, door prizes and much more merry winter fun! For additional information, visit fb.com/JBLMcyss.

Hillside Youth Center is located at Lewis Main, 6397 Garcia Blvd.

play to learn

Join the Children’s Museum of Tacoma for fun at Raindrops & Rainbows Join the Children’s Museum of Tacoma at Raindrops & Rainbows Parent and Child Play Center and Escape Zone Wednesday, Dec. 7 for Play to Learn! The fun is 10–11:30 a.m. at Escape Zone, and 1:30–3 p.m. at Raindrops & Rainbows.

Play to Learn is a free program for youth ages 6 and younger and their parents, grandparents, friends, Family and neighbors. Come by for activities, songs and group circle time!

Escape Zone is located at McChord Field, 841 Fairway Rd. and Raindrops & Rainbows is located at Lewis North, 8197 American Lake Ave.

youth team sports

Enroll now for Special Olympics basketball/cheer & spring soccer Remember to enroll by Friday, Dec. 9 for Special Olympics basketball and cheerleading. Both sports are open to youth ages 8–18 with and without special needs. Each costs $50.

Plus, soccer is enrolling now! Recreational in nature, bumblebee soccer and soccer teach youth the fundamentals of the game and the importance of teamwork while having fun. For ages 3–4, the cost is $20, while ages 5–15 is $55. Enrollment is open through Friday, Jan. 20.

To enroll for youth sports, visit JBLMcyssRegistration.com. You must be registered with CYSS. To register, call 253-966-CYSS for a registration appointment. For sports-related questions, call the Youth Sports Office at 253-967-2405.

Continued on page 25.

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23

focus |

MADIGAN ARMY MEDICAL CENTER WIS HES YOU & YOURS A

This holiday season, save time and fight the flu!

Flu shots are available at Madigan School-Based Health Centers for all military student-patients.

School-Based Health Centers are located at: • Mann Middle School • Pioneer Middle School • Woodbrook Middle School • Harrison Prep • Lakes High School

Call 1-800-404-4506 to book your teen’s flu shot appointment.

SS

IT H

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CA RE

IT H

SS

ION

9040 Jackson Ave | Tacoma, WA 98431 Army Medical Center www.mamc.amedd.army.mil 9040 Jackson Ave | Tacoma, WA 98431 Joint Base Lewis-McChord Focus December 2016 www.mamc.amedd.army.mil W

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madigan Army Medical Center madigan

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• Rogers High School • Steilacoom High School

Continued from page 23.

‘The Nutcracker’

Put this holiday performance on your calendar!

Join SKIESUnlimited and The Studio — A Center for the Performing Arts for the beloved holiday production “The Nutcracker.” Join sugar plum fairies, snow-

flakes, a mouse king and dolls that come to life as you celebrate your holiday with sparkle and fun! Choose from two shows at Lewis Main’s Evergreen Theater: Friday, Dec. 9, 7 p.m. and Saturday, Dec. 10, 2 p.m. Tickets are $5 each and available at SKIES Monday–Thursday, 5–7 p.m.

Audience members will be introduced to a magical world with SKIES dancers and performers. With a cast of more than 50, children have been rehearsing since August and are very excited to take the stage. Parents have also been cast in the adventure.

The adults are learning dance moves and blocking, all elaborate and stylized, yet fun!

SKIES plans to perform this production every year, so turn it into your new Family tradition and buy your tickets to this year’s production today. SKIES is located at 6398 Garcia Blvd. at Lewis Main, next door to Hillside Youth Center and Hillside Elementary. Evergreen Theater is located at 3405 2nd Division Dr. at Lewis Main. For details, call 253-966-3539.

winter break sports camps Stay active, play sports during winter break

Looking for sports fun during winter break? Enroll for:

• Start Smart Camp teaches tots ages 3–4 the fundamentals of sports and teamwork. Start Smart Camp is Dec. 20–22, 10–11 a.m. at the Youth Sports building. Enrollment runs through Sunday, Dec. 18 and is $20.

• Volleyball Camp is open to ages 9–18 for $35. Held at the Youth Sports building, camp is Dec. 20–22, 1–2:30 p.m.

Enroll through Sunday, Dec. 18 for $35.

• Flag Football Camp is Dec. 27–29 and open to youth ages 9–18. Camp is noon– 2 p.m. at the Youth Sports building.

Enroll for $35 through Sunday, Dec. 25.

Enroll at JBLMcyssRegistration.com.

For additional information, call 253-967-2405.

Dance classes

Tap, spin and twirl your way to fun with year-round classes Does your child love to dance?

SKIESUnlimited offers dance classes all year! Classes include ballet, jazz, hip-hop and parent-and-me. For the schedule and to enroll, visit JBLMcyssRegistration.com.

Also, keep your eyes out for a spring event “Once Upon a Time.” This SKIES festival celebrates children and literature and will have dance and theatre opportunities for JBLM youth.

Providing dental care for military members, their families and retirees of all ages!

FREE

TEETH WHITENING FOR LIFE!*

A full-service dental office with convenient locations in

*FOR ALL NEW PATIENTS WITH COMPREHENSIVE EXAM, NECESSARY X-RAYS AND CLEANING!

Graham 253-875-6599 Lakewood 253-584-2250 Olympia/Lacey 360-459-1333

spencerfamilydentalwa.com JBLMmwr.com

25

focus | military & Family readiness

26

Joint Base Lewis-McChord Focus December 2016

here for your family

during the holidays & all year long From parenting skills to financial refresher seminars, Armed Forces Community Service is here. you!

Parenting strategies to last a lifetime Help your child grow up happy and healthy with Grow! program

Attend the Grow! program and learn parenting skills that can strengthen your connection with your child and empower you with more skills to help him or her grow healthy and happy! If you’re a Service member, Spouse or DOD retiree with a child ages 5–8, this free class — with child care available — is for you!

Researchers at Penn State are offering an exciting opportunity to participate in a program to learn parenting strategies that will impact your child for a lifetime.

Research shows that a strong bond with a caring adult is one of the most powerful influences on the growth of a child! Learn: • Techniques for disciplining calmly and in a way that strengthens your relationship with your child.

• Tactics for establishing routines.

• Rules that can provide structure and safety and make managing your home easier (i.e., bedtime rituals, screen-time limits, school engagement, Family meals and household responsibilities).

The class meets Tuesdays for five weeks beginning Jan. 3, 1–2:30 p.m. and is held at the JBLM AFCS Family Advocacy Program, 2013A N. 3rd St. at Lewis Main. Register by Monday, Dec. 19 at thrive.psu.edu, e-mail register4grow@psu.edu or call 814-470-5640.

Continued on the next page.

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27

focus | military & Family readiness

Mark your calendars for these upcoming events & workshops!

have lunch with relocation!

The Multicultural Spouse Holiday Potluck Luncheon is Friday, Dec. 9 The AFCS Relocation Readiness Program invites all foreign-born military spouses to attend this year’s Multicultural Spouse Holiday Potluck Luncheon, at the Family Resource Center Friday, Dec. 9, 11 a.m.– 1 p.m. Please bring a dish from your country to share with the group. In addition to meeting new friends, you’ll also learn about available resources. Register online at JBLMafcs.checkappointments.com (under Classes & Activities, Relocation International Spouse Classes & Activities).

For more information, call 253-967-3628.

The FRC is located at 4274 Idaho Ave. (at 9th Division Drive), Lewis Main.

fallen heroes’ memorial tree

Decorate the memorial tree with JBLM SOS Families Survivor Outreach Services invites Survivors and their Families to the Fallen Heroes’ Memorial Tree Saturday, Dec. 10, 3–7 p.m. Put your loved one’s picture and information on an ornament for the SOS Christmas tree. The Christmas tree will be displayed in the SOS office for everyone to see. The event includes face painting, bobbing for apples and other arts and crafts for children. SOS will provide refreshments and it’s a good time

28

Joint Base Lewis-McChord Focus December 2016

to socialize with other Families. Register at JBLM-sos-fallen-heroes-memorial-treedecorating.eventbrite.com. If you have any questions please call 253-966-5047 or 253-967-3672.

learn & celebrate!

It’s AFFTB’s 22nd birthday — have cake, learn about the program AFCS Armed Forces Family Team Building is celebrating its 22nd year Friday, Dec. 16, 11 a.m.–3 p.m. Stop by the Lewis Main Commissary for information and a piece of cake.

Since its beginning, AFFTB has been helping spouses become self-reliant and self-sufficient, as well as to enjoy the military lifestyle. AFFTB is a modular training program taught by volunteers. This program is flexible and the classes can be taught separately for a unit training or Family Readiness Group meeting. AFFTB offers: • Military Knowledge for new spouses.

• Personal Growth and Resiliency for daily challenges.

• Leadership Development for sharpening your management skills.

• Company Command Team Spouse Seminar for spouses of new Company Commanders and First Sergeants.

All classes give you the tools and resources to succeed. Many of the classes can be applied to résumé and careerbuilding, self-development and leadership skills. The training is available to Family members, Service members, DOD civilians and volunteers. Register at JBLMafcs.

Fallen Heroes’ Memorial Tree

checkappointments.com (under AFCS Classes & Activities, AFFTB & AFFAP Classes). For more information on classes or volunteering, call 253-967-2382.

resiliency tip of the month

Making the holidays extra special The holiday season is fast-approaching.

Parents are busy making holiday preparations and children are busy making lists.

During the rush of this holiday season, remember to take notice of the people around us and those we love. This means shifting our focus from shopping to spending time together, sharing memories of the past and making memories for the future. Fostering Family rituals and traditions can make the holidays especially meaningful for both parents and children.

If a parent is away, Family rituals can also provide closeness and consistency that’s important for children of all ages.

If you’d like more ideas for enhancing Family closeness and support throughout the year, please contact the Families OverComing Under Stress Project. The FOCUS program works with Families just like yours to teach skills that help you be more successful and make the most of seasonal changes.

FOCUS is located at 2013B N. 3rd St. (at Pendleton Avenue) in Room 331. For additional information, call 253-966-6390 or email JBLM@focusproject.org. You may also visit online at FocusProject.org or fb.com/FOCUSresiliencytraining.

Help your children have great credit when they graduate high school!

Foster traditions this holiday season

Select AFCS events

Date

Details

Ready to Rent

Mondays

253-967-1453

Overseas Briefing

Mondays

253-967-3633

Toddler & Young Child Play Group (ages 1–3)

Tuesdays

253-967-5901

Baby Play Group

Thursdays

253-967-5901

First Duty Station Officer PFR Brief

Thursdays

253-967-1453

Infant Massage

Tuesdays, Dec. 6–20

253-967-5901

3D Month event

Thursday, Dec. 15

253-477-3806

Résumé 101

Thursday, Dec. 15

253-982-WORK

AFFTB Birthday

Friday, Dec. 16

253-967-2382

Relationship Class: Commitment

Monday, Dec. 19

253-967-5901

Relationship Reboot

Monday, Dec. 19

253-967-5901

The Complete Federal Résumé

Tuesday, Dec. 20

253-982-WORK

Smooth Move Workshop

Wednesday, Dec. 21

253-982-2695

Smooth Move Overseas Workshop

Thursday, Dec. 22

253-982-2695

Defense Installation Messaging System Trng

Tuesday, Dec. 27

253-982-2695

Grow! Parenting for 5–8 year olds

Tuesdays, Jan. 3–31

253-967-5901

ACT Women

Tu/Th, Jan. 3–26

253-967-5901

ACT Men

M/W, Jan. 4–Feb. 1

253-967-5901

Financially Fit

Wednesday, Jan. 4

253-967-1453

JBLM Community Update

Wednesday, Jan. 4

253-967-9496

Understanding AER Policies & Procedures

Wednesday, Jan. 4

253-967-1453

123 Magic

Thursdays, Jan. 5–26

253-967-5901

Military Knowledge Class

Jan. 5–6

253-967-2382

Interview-Ready Workshop

Thursday, Jan. 5

253-982-WORK

Re-Entry Workshop

Thursday, Jan. 5

253-967-3633

Alaska Briefing

Monday, Jan. 9

253-967-3633

Unit Prevention Leader Certification

Monday, Jan. 9

253-967-1415

Joint Newcomers’ Orientation

Tuesday, Jan. 10

253-967-3628 253-982-2695

Prime for Life

Tuesday, Jan. 10

253-967-1414

Concept Block I: I Married a Servicemember...Now What?

Wednesday, Jan. 11

253-967-2382

Checking Account Maintenance Refresher

Thursday, Jan. 12

253-967-1453

Résumé 101

Thursday, Jan. 12

253-982-WORK

By Rick DeChaineau AFC®, CFP® Armed Forces Community Service Financial Counselor

Did you have trouble getting a car loan when you graduated from high school? Or you were able to get a loan but the interest rate was very high? You can give your kid(s) a leg-up on this challenge.

Of the five factors used to compute your FICO credit score: • Payment history ­— do you pay on time? — makes up 35 percent.

• Amounts owed — how much of your available credit you’re using — at 30 percent.

• Length of credit history — how long have you had credit a counts — is 15 percent.

• New credit — how many times you have recently applied for credit — is 10 percent.

• Types of credit — car loan, credit card, home loan, etc. — is 10 percent.

For many credit cards, making your child (as young as possible) an “authorized user” on your account will start to build their credit history even though you do not give your child a card. Adding them to your account will begin their credit history. Doing this for a child at six months of age will give them almost 18 years of credit “history” by high school graduation!

They will also benefit from your ensuring all card payments are made on time and balances are kept at low or zero (pay the card off every month). These steps will be especially important as they approach the age to apply for credit on their own.

A word of caution: If you fail to wisely manage credit, your child will not be able to get good interest rates or loans!

However, if you stay on track the end result will be your child more easily qualifying for loans, credit cards, etc., — with better interest rates — as they start their life as an adult.

By helping them with on-time payments (avoiding late fees) and keeping zero or low balances (which means you pay little or no interest) it’s great for your credit — the icing on the cake!

/JBLMafcs

Treasurer Training Thursday, Jan. 12 253-967-8430 For additional AFCS classes and briefings available (including those at Yakima, call 253-967-7166 or visit JBLMafcs.checkappointments.com. For details, call the phone number listed, visit the event calendar at JBLMmwr.com or “like” us at fb.com/JBLMafcs.

JBLMmwr.com

29

focus | libraries

Coming to McChord, Grandstaff & Book Patch libraries:

Holiday events join your favorite winter reading program

Enroll now to read fun books & earn cool prizes “The weather outside is frightful, but a book is so delightful!”

The Winter Reading Program runs Dec. 1–30 at McChord and Book Patch libraries. Both prereaders and readers are invited to enroll, read books (or be read to) and earn prizes. Stop by either library to register.

craft, create & conversate

Head to Book Patch for Girls Club You’re invited to Craft, Create and Conversate at Book Patch Library’s Girls Club. For ages 8–15, the club meets Friday, Dec. 9, 6–7:30 p.m. This month’s theme is “Nail it, String it & Hang it — Beautiful.” The Friday, Jan. 13 event is “Ring in the New Year — ­ Bring on the Bling!” No registration is required. For more information, call 253-967-5533.

Lego club

Get creative at McChord Library McChord Library hosts Lego Club the first Friday of every month at 4 p.m. Bring your youngsters to create and build to their hearts’ content!

The next workshop is Dec. 2. The library provides the Lego bricks and your children provide the imagination. To reserve your space (space is limited), visit the library’s “Calendar of Events” page at JBLMmwr.com or call 253-982-3454.

Get fit with literature

Don’t miss yoga storytime You’re invited to Book Patch Library

30

Joint Base Lewis-McChord Focus December 2016

Wednesday, Dec. 7 for yoga storytime at 10:30 a.m. and 3 p.m. No registration is required. This monthly event is brought to you by WarriorOne LewisMcChord! For additional information, call 253-967-5533.

calling all teens!

Join Teen Advisory Committee Want a voice in what happens at McChord Library? This teen-only committee is looking for you! The Teen Advisory Committee is a motivated and dedicated group that discusses everything from books to events and programs. The next committee meeting is Wednesday, Dec. 7 at 4 p.m.

sensory-friendly storytime

Books come alive at Book Patch Book Patch Library, together with Child, Youth & School Services program SKIESUnlimited, offers sensoryfriendly storytime Wednesday, Dec. 14 at 3 p.m. Explore sights, sounds, smells and tastes with crafts as books come alive through song, dance and music.

For details, call 253-967-5533.

‘novel navigators’

Join McChord Library’s book club Come to McChord Library Wednesday, Dec. 14 to discuss “The Girl with

monthly programs all the Gifts” by M.R. Carey. “Novel Navigators,” the book discussion group for adults, meets monthly on the second Wednesday at 4:30 p.m.

Register in person to receive a copy (limited number available). For additional information, call 253-982-3454.

don’t miss color, line & storytime

Get in touch with your artistic side with this storytime event Kids, you’re invited to Book Patch Library for a fun, creative program called Color, Line & Storytime! Join art teacher extraordinaire Lilly Sherwood Wednesday, Dec. 21 for two events — 10:30 a.m. and 3 p.m. The program offers hands-on instruction designed to explore color, line, shape, texture and pattern to encourage self-expression and creativity. Registration is not required. For additional information, call 253-967-5533.

microsoft open lab

Set your résumé apart from the rest Service members and their Families can earn free Microsoft Certification at McChord Library beginning Monday, Jan. 9! Join Pierce County Library System staff on Mondays in the new year, 10 a.m.–5 p.m. to get enrolled, study up on Microsoft and learn more about the program. The Microsoft Open Lab program is designed to be flexible for your learning needs — staff can assist you with learning plans and you can certify when you’re ready. For additional information, email openlab@ pcls.us.

holiday open house

Celebrate the holidays, enjoy refreshments You’re invited to the annual holiday open houses at JBLM libraries for refreshments and holiday cheer. Stop by Grandstaff Library Wednesday, Dec. 14 and McChord Library Thursday, Dec. 15. Both events are from 10 a.m.–2 p.m.

yule ball

Don’t miss McChord’s Wizarding Yule Ball The Witches and Wizards of McChord Library request the pleasure of your company at the first-ever Wizarding Yule Ball Friday, Dec. 16 at 6 p.m. Dress robes are allowed but not required as this will be an event open to ages 5 and older. Bring the spirit of the wizarding world into your ensemble, if you choose.

Refreshments and fun activities will be provided.

pajama party storytime Special holiday storytime event

Wear your pajamas and bring your favorite stuffed animal to McChord Library’s holiday storytime Wednesday, Dec. 21 at 6 p.m. Sip hot cocoa while listening to holiday favorites under the Christmas tree.

Noon year’s eve

Join McChord Library at a party just for kids!

Hey, kids! Come to McChord Library for the Noon Year’s Eve Party Friday, Dec. 30, 11:30 a.m. Help count down the end of the old year and start the new one with a celebration! This event is for ages 1–5.

• McChord Library is located at 851 Lincoln Blvd. at McChord Field; 253-982-3454.

• Grandstaff Library is located at Lewis Main, 2109 N. 10th St. (at Pendleton Avenue); 253-967-5889.

• Book Patch is located inside Grandstaff; 253-967-5533.

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